The number 40 in pictures

My parents recently celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary, and I knew I wanted to do something special for them. When I saw this image via Martha Stewart, I knew it would be perfect!

I thought I would share the step by step here, in case you might want to make one yourself. I found a few things to be helpful.

Supplies:
– black and white 4×6 photos (both vertical and horizontal): to make the ’40’ I ended up printing WAY more than I needed. You might want to try and figure out how many pictures you think you’ll need before you spend the time (& money) printing and scanning.
– one giant cardboard box: this is optional, but it really helped me find a good shape of the numbers
– serrated edge knife for cutting the cardboard box
– clear packaging tape to adhere the pictures to the cardboard
– 3M hooks for hanging the big numbers on the chalkboard – I love these things!
– one BIG 4ft. by 8ft. chalkboard

Here’s the How-To in pictures:

This was a fun project…yet big project, but 40 years is a BIG Deal, and I wanted to do something big to celebrate.

Thanks Mom & Dad for being the wonderful examples you are to all of us. We love you two!

That is the COOLEST idea I have ever seen!!! LOVE IT Kami. I bet your parents were so touched you took the time to make that for them. And how cool to see all those pictures of your life together. This would be fun for anybody at any occasion!

This is such a great idea! I love that it’s on cardboard so that they can take it and keep it and put it up somewhere and then the chalkboard not only looks GORGEOUS (because you did the black and white photos with the white border – my fave way to print pictures!), but it gets your guests involved and makes such an awesome, personalized souvenir of the event and loved ones there! I love party decor that looks great and that you can save and becomes art later! : )

Hi, thanks for this great idea! I found it on Pinterest. In case you wanna have a look on a 50, which I made similar to yours, please visit my blog: http://www.kreativ-aktiv.blogspot.com
Greetings Sabine